Charlotte, NC- Purchase your tickets now for Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s 2nd Annual “Hats Off to Parks” Luncheon on Friday, May 11, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., in Freedom Park. The event is one of Charlotte’s largest garden parties and serves as a fundraiser for various park projects throughout the County. This year, the fundraiser will benefit the Clark’s Creek Nature Preserve Amenities Fund.

Clark’s Creek nature preserve was dedicated as a County nature preserve in 2008. It is a Natural Heritage Site, meaning it contains exceptional natural resources, habitats, and wildlife. Numerous rare species, including red headed woodpeckers, grasshopper sparrows, and eastern meadowlarks can be found on the property. In addition, the presence of high quality woodlands, the tributary of Clark’s Creek (which runs along the northern border of the property), meadows, and a small pond enable the visitor to sometimes see beaver, great blue herons, deer, coyote, and other wildlife.

Currently the site has no public amenities. The goal of the Hats Off fundraiser is to change that. Funds raised would go towards a small parking lot, signage, a large shelter, nature play/playground area, well-established and maintained trails, and other basic amenities such as trash cans and benches.

The addition of these amenities would improve the preserve for nearby residents and school groups who frequent Clark’s Creek for recreational and educational purposes.

Last year, the Hats Off fundraiser helped fund the construction of a community park in the Lincoln Heights Neighborhood. Watch the video.

Tickets are $50. To request a ticket or receive sponsorship information, contact Lori Saylor at 704-353-0504.